Psoriasis and the Heart

Last year I wrote
about Psoriasis Awareness. That post was mainly to define
psoriasis and tell readers about the Awareness Month that comes each August.
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that began attacking my skin about
four years ago. When it first started appearing, it was on my neck,
shoulders and eyelids. After steroid treatment knocked that down, it
reappeared on my ankle, elbows, and lower back. These places were very
severe and hard to treat.

As I saw different doctors, I was given
different opinions. But, the final diagnosis and treatment was steroid
cream. This only worked to keep it calmed down. When I was finally
diagnosed with Mast Cell Disorder and prescribed oral medications with the
steroid cream, did the Psoriasis finally heal.

There are always new
outbreaks, as I’m now having it in other places. But, I do have ways to
treat this disorder. Autoimmune diseases are not something you can forget
about. There are many steps to take care of yourself. If you don’t
follow the steps to protect your skin, bad results will come.

As I read more about
Psoriasis, I’m reminded that it’s not just a simple skin condition. I
need to be taking care of the entire body, because Psoriasis can damage my
organs. Here are some facts presented by the Psoriasis Foundation: Many
with psoriasis (30%) will develop Psoriatic Arthritis. Some studies have
shown an increase in cancer in those with Psoriasis. Those with severe
psoriasis could be 58% more at risk for a major cardiac event and 43% more at
risk for stroke. (https://www.psoriasis.org/about-psoriasis/related-conditions)

These studies are
pretty shocking to me. (The Psoriasis Foundation has so much information
for you to read. if you are interested.) Being middle-aged, I know that
being heart-healthy is extremely important for every woman desiring a long and
healthy life.

Having so many chronic health problems, makes it very
difficult for me to exercise. It’s worrisome for me to think about my
aging cardiovascular system, knowing that I haven’t exercised in four years.
I will really have to Fight like a Girl if I’m going to make it back to
exercising!!!! I hope the physical therapist can get me going

Disclosure: I am not
a medical expert. All information is presented as my personal opinion, or
shared from a website. If you are unwell or have medical questions,
please consult your personal physician. @2016, copyright Lisa
Ehrman

Psoriasis and the Heart
Reviewed by Lisa Ehrman
on
February 10, 2016
Rating: 5